Characterizing the mitochondrial DNA polymerase gamma interactome by BioID identifies Ruvbl2 localizes to the mitochondria

Abstract Human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is replicated by the mitochondrial DNA polymerase gamma (POLG). Using proximity dependent biotin labelling (BioID), we characterized the POLG interactome and identified new interaction partners involved in mtDNA maintenance, transcription, translation and protein quality control. We also identified interaction with the nuclear AAA + ATPase Ruvbl2, suggesting mitochondrial localization for this protein. Ruvbl2 was detected in mitochondria-enriched fractions in leukemic cells. Additionally, transgenic overexpression of Ruvbl2 from an alternative translation initiation site resulted in mitochondrial co-localization. Overall, POLG interactome mapping identifies novel proteins which support mitochondrial biogenesis and a potential novel mitochondrial isoform of Ruvbl2.